Gordon knows value of getting 'more reps'

Cletis Gordon is entering his fourth season. He's scheduled to make $1.45 million in 2009.

But there he was yesterday at Chargers Park practicing with the rookies and a handful of other second-, third-and fourth-year players.

“Any time as a player like me, when you can get more reps, it's going to help in the long run,” Gordon said.

And there he was about noon yesterday, the last player on the field, working on his angles of pursuit with assistant Cris Dishman.

Gordon knows the Chargers drafted a cornerback (Brandon Hughes) to challenge him for playing time and perhaps even a roster spot.

This is a crucial offseason for Gordon, whose speed, in particular, has made him an intriguing prospect since he was signed as an undrafted free agent in 2006.

“You can say it's make or break,” Gordon said. “But I feel like every year is make or break for me.”

Gordon was joined on the field by a few other non-rookies such as Antoine Cason, Brandon Siler and Paul Oliver.

“These are guys that can use the work,” coach Norv Turner said. “It gives them more reps.”

Merriman working

True to his word, Shawne Merriman has had perfect attendance at OTAs since missing the first week while traveling abroad.

While he hasn't been cleared to practice, Merriman has spent his time running and cutting on the side as he continues to strengthen his surgically repaired knee.

“I'm pushing myself as much as I can,” Merriman said. “Doing that right now will make it easier when it's time to go.”

Merriman guaranteed he will be healthy enough to practice by training camp. But he knows the team may continue to be cautious with him.

“It all depends on how much they hold me back or allow me to do,” he said.

Youth rising

A primary purpose of these OTAs, and particularly this week's four practices, is to familiarize the young players with the playbook and speed of the game so they can hit the ground running in training camp.

If they can do that, then the spring will have served a larger purpose for a few players.

Even though the Chargers are largely set at many positions, Turner told the rookies yesterday they will be needed at some point, in some capacity this season.

“They will be asked to contribute,” Turner said. “They have to do it. They have to come along quickly.”

Turner was likely primarily speaking to the likes of Larry English, Louis Vasquez, Vaughn Martin and Kevin Ellison, the draftees who figure to get the most playing time in '09.